Obituaries » Bobby Ray Karnes

Bobby Ray Karnes

May 18, 1970 - May 14, 2023

Bobby Ray Karnes, 52, of Thaxton, passed away on Sunday, May 14, 2023, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born in Bedford on May 18, 1970, the son of Ray S. Karnes and Paula Amos Karnes.

Bobby is a member of Suck Spring Baptist Church. He worked for his family’s business at North Side Supply and worked in the printing industry for many years before being able to work alongside his father Ray. He loved hunting, fishing, and the outdoors, especially spending time on the family farm. Bobby also loved spending time with his family.In addition to his parents Bobby was survived by his loving wife, Melissa L. Karnes; son, Caleb Lee Williams; his two sisters, Pamela Gail Turpin (Steve) and Carolyn Anne Karnes (Barry). Also surviving are numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

A graveside service and celebration of Bobby’s life will be conducted at 11:00 am Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at Suck Spring Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Parr and Rev. Michael Cox officiating. To make memorial contributions in Bobby’s memory please consider: Hunters for The Hungry or BOSA (Bedford Outdoor Sportsmen’s Association). To send condolences online please visit tharpfuneralhome.com. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.

Condolences & Tributes

Celebrate Bobby's life with a short message, photo or video!

We are so very sorry to hear of Bobby’s passing. Our condolences to the Karnes family. 🙏🏻

Posted by Chic and Becky Gordon on May 17, 2023

My heart breaks for Ray and family. I was so sad to hear the news.

Posted by Randee Beckman on May 17, 2023

To the Karnes family I'm so sorry to hear of the Monday. When I heard it the first thing I thought about was the times we had riding the back roads when we got off work at piedmont label 25 plus years ago. Bobby the pain is gone, go and look over us and and help guide us in the best direction. I'll miss the early morning drive by when your sitting on the bench.😪

Posted by Greg Fulton on May 16, 2023

You and your family in our thoughts and prayers

Posted by Deanna Karnes Briggs on May 16, 2023

My thoughts and prayers to the family. We all liked Bobby - a kind man

Posted by Bill Vickery on May 16, 2023

This is a such a shock! Bobby was such a nice guy! I will miss you my friend! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family❤️

Posted by Amy Mcroberts on May 16, 2023

This was A real shock to hear about Bobby he was a close friend that you could count on in times of need. It will be hard to not be able to drop by the shop and kill some time swapping tall tales. They say only the good die young. Bobby you will be missed by many my friend sleep well. GOD BLESS YOU.

Posted by John Cash on May 16, 2023

I'm so sorry to hear about Bobby's passing. I've known him my whole. What a great guy. Prayers for his family

Posted by Marlene Witt on May 16, 2023

I knew Bobby through Northside Supply. My deepest sympathy to his wife & family. I am praying for you all. 🙏

Posted by Annette Patrick on May 15, 2023

I knew Bobby through Northside Supply. My deepest sympathy to his wife & family. I am praying for you all. 🙏

Posted by Annette Patrick on May 15, 2023

How to Write a Sympathy Message



Register now for the live seminar





Click here to access Obituary Archives from 2014 and earlier.